Duralumin - an alloy of aluminum, magnesium, manganese and copper - is the most durable of all aluminum alloys. This alloy was first made in the early twentieth century, when it was discovered that the addition of copper to aluminum and tempering by rapid cooling resulted in an almost five-fold hardening of the alloy.
Aluminum and duralumin pipes will last longer and are much lighter than steel. Duralumin pipe withstands loads well and is in contact with aggressive media without loss of strength. Additional heat treatment (hardening, natural or artificial aging) can significantly improve the properties of the pipe. Duralumin is susceptible to corrosion due to the presence of copper, therefore a film of pure aluminum is applied to the product, which provides strength along with resistance to corrosion.
Aluminum is superior to other materials in terms of strength-to-weight ratio. The advantage of aluminum in this regard has established the modern aerospace industry and is widely used in various forms of transportation and other applications.
Duralumin is used for the manufacture of wires, rods, pipes, etc. It is used in places where good strength and good machinability are required. Aluminum profiles are seamless, one-piece products. This has both visual and functional benefits, preventing leakage in duralumin pipes and other hollow shapes.
The alloy is used in heavy forgings, wheels, plates, extrusions, aircraft fittings, launch vehicles, and suspension components. It finds application in places where high strength is required and work at elevated temperatures.
It is used to make aircraft structure, truck wheels, screw machine products, rivets and other products. In sheet form, it is used for body panels. Duralumin is used in forgings, pistons of aircraft engines, working elements of jet engines and compressors.
